MY TRAVEL: From California to Peru and Brazil

Dear friends, after spending a few weeks in Peru and Brazil, I can't help but recommend the beautiful countries to everyone.   Peru especially touched my heart not only because of its striking natural beauty but also the wonderfully kind hearted locals.  For weeks I traveled through some of the most beautiful areas of Peru, such as Machu Picchu and Lake Titicaca.  At each historical sight I was amazed at what the Incas had built and also how simple life had still remained in many of the villages.  Especially on the man made floating islands of Lake Titicaca, where time had seemed to stop.  But the most stand out images are from the Catholic cathedrals and churches all around Peru, which are by far to say the least, jaw dropping beautiful.  The only drawback I would have to say to Peru is the high altitude which caused me to be sick the majority of my trip and the lack of descent fruit in the more rural areas.   But even that I can't really complain much because the locals took care of me as if I was one of their own.

Unlike Peru, Brazil offers a different flavor which is no stranger to night clubs, prostitution, drugs and alternative life styles.  Those who are not interested in that can visit its beautiful museums, sample the amazing selection of quality fruit, enjoy a wonderful churrascos dinner, relax to the beach atmosphere or attend a match at the historical Maracana football stadium.  Not to mention get a good tan at two of the most famous beaches in the world; Ipanema and Copacabana Beach in Rio de Janeiro.  But for even a more luxurious trip, Buzios is the place to be!  A two hour drive from Rio de Janeiro, its inviting sandy beaches, green water, cobblestone streets, tiny boutiques and  the famous Chez Michaud restaurant (serves palacinke with every imaginable filling) is the true getaway!

As for Croatians in both countries, Peru has a very tiny population in Lima and a fishing village called Ilok.  Peru is also home to a Peruvian-Croatian Bishop of Puno, Pedro Carrion Pavlich.  Unlike Peru, Brazil definitely has a larger population of Croatians, which are in Sao Paulo.   Even though there was not a great population as we are accustomed in the United States, Croatia is well known.  Wearing my Croatian shirt definitely got some great comments especially in Brazil after Croatia defeated England!  Oh, and not to mention the biggest 'Croatian' surprise, was to see a Croatian flag flying in Buzios for the international film festival!

For those of you who intend to travel to Peru, I recommend to be aware of the altitude sickness, which I suffered from the majority of the trip until I gave up on my American prescription drugs and took their local remedies.  And for those of you interested in traveling to Brazil, forewarning Americans citizens need visas while Croatian citizens do not.

Bien viajes!

(Originaly published in Croatian Chronicle, in December, 2007)

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